Link Audiology provides professional ear wax removal in Washington. We have clinics in Silverdale, WA, Vashon, WA, and University Place, WA. 

Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. Its primary function is to protect the ear by trapping dust, debris, and foreign particles, thus preventing them from reaching the eardrum. However, excessive ear wax buildup can lead to discomfort, hearing impairment, and even ear infections.

While ear wax typically migrates out of the ear canal on its own, certain factors such as narrow ear canals, the use of hearing aids or earplugs, and excessive production of ear wax, can hinder this process and result in buildup.

Symptoms of excessive ear wax buildup may include earache, hearing loss, ear ringing (tinnitus), dizziness, or a feeling of fullness in the ear. 

In such cases, professional ear wax removal may be necessary to alleviate symptoms and restore optimal hearing.

Understanding Ear Wax

Ear wax is made up of a mixture of dead skin cells, hair, and secretions from the glands in the ear canal. This waxy substance can be yellow, brown, or even a bit orange, depending on the person.

Types of Ear Wax

There are two main types of ear wax: wet and dry. Wet ear wax is sticky and often darker in color. It is common among people of African and European descent. Dry ear wax, on the other hand, is crumbly and lighter in color. It is more common among people of Asian and Native American descent. Both types of ear wax are perfectly normal and healthy.

Normal Function of Ear Wax

Ear wax has several important functions that help keep our ears healthy:

  • Protective Barrier: Ear wax acts as a shield, protecting the ear canal from dust, dirt, and small particles that could harm the ear.
  • Moisturizing: It keeps the skin inside the ear canal from becoming too dry, which can be uncomfortable and lead to itching.
  • Self-Cleaning Mechanism: Ear wax helps clean the ear canal by trapping dust and debris. When we talk, chew, and move our jaws, the ear wax gradually moves towards the opening of the ear, carrying the trapped particles with it. Eventually, the wax dries up and falls out of the ear on its own, taking the dirt and debris with it.

How Do You Know If You Have Ear Wax? 

Sometimes, ear wax can build up too much and cause problems. This is called ear wax impaction. Let’s look at some common causes of ear wax impaction:

  • Using Cotton Swabs: Many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can push the wax deeper into the ear canal, causing a blockage.
  • Earbuds and Hearing Aids: Wearing earbuds or hearing aids frequently can push ear wax further into the ear canal, leading to impaction.
  • Narrow Ear Canals: Some people naturally have narrower ear canals, making it easier for ear wax to get stuck and build up.
  • Excessive Ear Wax Production: Some people produce more ear wax than others. This can increase the risk of impaction.
  • Older Age: As people age, the ear wax becomes harder and less likely to move out of the ear canal on its own, leading to impaction.

Symptoms and Potential Complications of Ear Wax Impaction

When ear wax builds up and causes a blockage, you may experience several symptoms. It’s important to recognize these symptoms so you can get help if needed:

  • Hearing Loss: Impacted ear wax can block sound waves, making it difficult to hear.
  • Earache: You might feel pain or discomfort in your ear.
  • Fullness in the Ear: Your ear might feel like it’s plugged or full.
  • Ringing in the Ear: Known as tinnitus, this is when you hear ringing or buzzing sounds that aren’t coming from an external source.
  • Dizziness: Sometimes, impacted ear wax can cause balance problems or make you feel dizzy.

If ear wax impaction is not treated, it can lead to more serious complications:

  • Infection: Impacted ear wax can trap bacteria in the ear, leading to an infection. Signs of infection include pain, redness, and discharge from the ear.

If you think you have ear wax impaction, it’s important to see an audiologist for professional ear wax removal. 

At Link Audiology, our Washington audiologists are trained to safely remove the ear wax and help prevent future problems. Avoid using cotton swabs or other objects to try to remove the wax yourself, as this can make the problem worse.

How Do You Clean Your Ears? 

Cleaning your ears might seem easy, but it’s important to do it safely. 

Here are some tips on how to clean your ears properly.

  • Use a Damp Cloth: After showering, gently wipe the outer part of your ears with a damp cloth. This helps remove any dirt or wax that may have come out.
  • Ear Drops: You can buy special ear drops from the pharmacy. These drops help soften earwax so it can naturally come out of your ear. Follow the instructions on the package.
  • Bulb Syringe: A bulb syringe can help flush out softened earwax. Fill the syringe with warm water, tilt your head to the side, and gently squirt the water into your ear. Let the water and wax drain out.

Do’s and Don’ts:

Do’s:

  • Do keep your ears dry: After swimming or showering, gently dry your ears with a towel.
  • Do use ear drops or oil: Over-the-counter ear drops or a few drops of mineral oil can help keep earwax soft.

Don’ts:

  • Don’t use cotton swabs: Sticking cotton swabs in your ears can push wax deeper and cause damage. Only use them to clean the outer ear.
  • Don’t use sharp objects: Never use hairpins or paper clips to clean your ears. They can hurt your ear canal or eardrum.
  • Don’t ignore pain or hearing loss: See an audiologist if your ears hurt or you have trouble hearing. They can check if earwax or another problem is causing it.

Remember, your ears usually clean themselves. Only clean them when necessary, and always be gentle. If you’re unsure, schedule an appointment with an audiologist.

How Does An Audiologist Clean Ears? 

Audiologists are trained to clean ears safely and carefully. First, we look inside your ears with a special tool called an otoscope. This tool helps us see if there is any wax or other debris that needs to be removed.

Next, the audiologist may use a small, soft tool called a curette to gently scoop out the earwax. Sometimes, we might use warm water or a special liquid to wash out the ear. This is called irrigation. An audiologist will carefully squirt the water into your ear and then let it drain out, bringing the wax with it.

If the earwax is very hard or stuck, special tools with a microscope might be used to help us see better. This way, we can remove the wax without hurting your ear. Throughout the process, we will make sure you are comfortable and that your ears are cleaned safely.

After cleaning, your ears will feel better, and you will hear more clearly.

Ear Wax Removal FAQs

How do you know if you need ear irrigation?

Ear irrigation might be necessary if you experience certain symptoms including hearing loss, ear pain or discomfort, itching, ringing in the ear, or dizziness.
If you have any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to talk to an audiologist.

Can I use a WaterPik to clean my ears?

No, you should not use a WaterPik to clean your ears. A WaterPik is designed for cleaning teeth and gums, not for ear cleaning. Using it in your ears can be dangerous because the pressure from the water can damage your eardrums or push earwax deeper into your ear canal, which can cause pain, hearing loss, or infections. It’s safer to use ear cleaning methods recommended by doctors, like ear drops or visiting a healthcare professional for ear cleaning.

How often should I get my ears professionally cleaned?

That depends on the size of your ear canals, how much ear wax your ears produce, and whether you regularly put things in your ears like hearing aids or ear plugs. If you have a lot of earwax buildup or wear hearing aids, you might need to do it more often, like every 6 months. Always ask an audiologist for the best advice for your situation.

Is it safe to use hydrogen peroxide in your ear?

Using hydrogen peroxide in your ear can be safe, but it’s important to do it correctly and with caution. Hydrogen peroxide can help soften and remove earwax. However, if you have an ear infection, a hole in your eardrum, or ear tubes, you should not use hydrogen peroxide. Too much hydrogen peroxide can cause irritation or damage to the ear canal. So, while it can be safe, you need to be careful and follow proper instructions.

Why can’t my audiologist take my ear wax out?

Taking wax out of the ear can sometimes cause some bleeding in the ear. Just like when the membranes in your nose become irritated and bleed, the inside of your ear can bleed. So, if you are taking blood thinners or are otherwise at greater risk for bleeding, you should have ear wax removed at your physician’s office. That way, in the case that your ear does bleed, your physician can stem the bleeding.

Link Audiology | Professional Ear Wax Removal in Washington

If you ever feel like your ears are blocked, itchy, or you’re having trouble hearing, it might be because of too much ear wax. Our audiologists at Link Audiology are here to help you.

Don’t wait until ear wax becomes a bigger problem. 

Make an appointment with us today to ensure your ears stay in great shape. You can easily book online or give us a call. We’re excited to help you hear your best!

We have clinics in Silverdale, WA, Vashon, WA, and University Place, WA.